When Peace Is a Choice
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Lee Cummings’ sermon from December 21, 2025!
Long before the first Christmas, Isaiah wrote about a child who would come—one called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. When Jesus was born, angels announced peace on earth. Later, Jesus would tell His followers, “Peace I leave with you. . . not as the world gives.”
That promise wasn’t about a calm life. It was about a steady heart.
When Jesus stood in a boat surrounded by crashing waves and said, “Peace, be still,” the storm didn’t define the moment—He did. Peace isn’t the absence of chaos; it’s the presence of Jesus. It doesn’t come from circumstances changing, but from trusting the One who holds them.
Peace Is a Choice
If peace is found in Jesus, then it’s also something we have to choose. Scripture says to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts. That word—let—means we have a part to play. Peace isn’t forced on us; it’s something we have to actively choose.
So often, anxiety comes from trying to control what hasn’t even happened yet. We replay worst-case scenarios and worry about the future on repeat. But what if, instead of trying to manage everything, we made a different choice—one to trust Jesus with our thoughts and emotions?
Peace Is Practiced
Peace doesn’t happen by accident. We get good at worrying because we practice it constantly. If we want to walk in peace, we have to practice thinking with peace, too.
It starts with surrender. Each day, naming what we can’t control and placing it back in Jesus’ hands. Even saying it out loud matters—our words shape our thoughts, and our thoughts shape our hearts.
Peace also requires slowing down. Our souls weren’t designed to move at the speed of anxiety. Creating small moments of quiet—five or ten minutes without noise or distraction—makes space for peace to become a habit and take deep root.
Finally, peace grows through gratitude. A thankful heart leaves little room for anxiety. Gratitude doesn’t ignore what’s hard; it reframes it. It reminds us that even in uncertainty, God is still present, still faithful. We have to look back on all of the times God was faithful before, knowing that His reputation of provision brings peace.
This Christmas—and Beyond
This season, we get to choose what we pull out of Christmas. We can focus on stress, disappointment, and what feels out of our control. Or we can choose Jesus—the Prince of Peace—and practice His peace daily.
Take a breath. Make room. Let Jesus take the place at the center of your heart. Peace is available—not because life is calm, but because He is near.
Tap to watch Pastor Lee Cummings’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Peace Is a Person
Reading: John 14:25–27
Devotional: The angels didn’t announce calm circumstances at Christ’s birth—they announced a Person. Jesus later said, “My peace I give to you,” reminding us that peace isn’t something we create but someone we know. Real peace isn’t found in controlling life’s storms but in trusting the One who speaks over them. The same Jesus who said, “Peace, be still,” to the waves is present with you today. The gift of Christmas isn’t an abstract feeling of calm—it’s Jesus Himself, and when you have Him, you have access to peace that holds steady even when life doesn’t.
Day 2: Letting Peace Rule
Reading: Colossians 3:12–17
Devotional: Scripture tells us to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts—meaning peace must be invited. It acts like an umpire, guiding our decisions and responses when fear tries to take over. Especially during the Christmas season, anxiety can grow loud, but peace is meant to lead. Instead of reacting from worry, pause and choose trust. Each time you say, “Jesus, You are in control of what I cannot control,” you strengthen your ability to walk in His peace.
Day 3: Practicing Peace
Reading: Philippians 4:4–9
Devotional: We’re skilled at worry because we practice it daily, but peace requires intention. Paul reminds us that peace grows through prayer, surrender, and thanksgiving—not perfect circumstances. Start small: place what you can’t control back into Jesus’ hands, and create moments to slow your soul. Even a few quiet minutes with Scripture can make space for peace to settle. This Advent, resist the rush and choose practices that anchor your heart in the Prince of Peace.
Day 4: The Weapon of Thankfulness
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16–24
Devotional: A thankful heart leaves little room for anxiety. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s missing to what’s been given, reminding us that God is still present even in difficulty. This Christmas, you may be carrying disappointment, grief, or exhaustion—but Jesus remains the greatest gift. Choosing thankfulness doesn’t deny pain; it declares that God’s goodness is still at work. Gratitude becomes a powerful weapon against worry.
Day 5: Peace That Surpasses Understanding
Reading: Isaiah 9:6–7
Devotional: Isaiah promises that the Prince of Peace will reign without end, offering peace that surpasses understanding. This peace doesn’t minimize our struggles—it guards us through them. God’s kingdom grows through surrender, not control, and His peace increases as we let Him rule. As Christmas approaches, invite Jesus to take His rightful place in every area of your life. When He reigns, His peace protects what you cannot.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the Presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.